


The Netherlands borders Belgium to the south and Germany to the east, with the North Sea to the northwest. Large areas of The Netherlands have been reclaimed from the sea and, consequently, one-fifth of the country lies below sea level. The country is flat and level and is criss-crossed by rivers and canals. Former sea beds, known as polders, are extremely fertile. The landscape is broken up by the forest of Arnhem, the bulb fields in the west, the lakes of the central and northern areas, and coastal dunes that are among the most impressive in Europe.
Summer is generally pleasant and mildly warm, making outdoor activities a joy with refreshing temperatures and abundant sunshine. Rain falls year-round, though most of it comes during the winter and fall months. Although the temperature rarely dips below freezing, fog and mist are ever-present because Amsterdam is partially below sea level. Nonetheless, there is plenty of sunshine in winter to accompany the cold.
Spring average 54°F.
Summer average 67°F.
Fall average 56°F.
Winter average 36°F.